World watch

World watch

May 17, 2009|By Larry Habegger

Belgium

Belgian and European aviation authorities have concluded that security needs tightening at Brussels' Zaventem Airport. Studies found that security exams of checked and carry-on luggage were not thorough enough and that staff members with no business in the baggage-handling area were allowed to walk through.

Jamaica

A labor dispute between the Jamaican Constabulary Force and the government has raised the possibility that police officers could protest by taking sick leave in large numbers. A union leader said police would not strike and jeopardize island security, but the government has put the military on alert just in case.

Netherlands

Cannabis cafes in Limburg province, which borders Belgium and Germany, will become private members' clubs next year to cut down on drug tourism. The plan will require a processing period of several days to obtain a membership card, possibly blocking access to marijuana for most of the 4 million foreigners who go each year to obtain it. Such drug tourism has created nuisances and increased crime. The national government backs the plan, which authorities view as a pilot to be extended to other provinces if successful.

Thailand

Authorities are mystified by the deaths of three foreign tourists within a month on Koh Phi Phi, a popular tourist island off Thailand's Andaman coast. In three cases April 1 and May 3 and 4, two Norwegians and an American died of a mysterious illness whose symptoms in the first case included severe diarrhea and in the other cases severe vomiting and stomach pains. A blog post reported cyanide poisoning, but doctors and police ruled that out. Police have visited the guesthouses where the victims stayed and have not reported any evidence to suggest what might have happened. Autopsies are being done, but medical authorities do not expect conclusive results for at least a month.

Ukraine

The U.S. Embassy in Kiev reported that police are hunting for a serial killer believed responsible for at least five murders of women ages 19 through 70 in Kiev province. The suspect is male, about 35 and believed to dress in a police uniform or priest's cassock to lure victims. Police advise women not to venture out alone at night. The embassy message also reminded travelers that crime is a serious problem in Ukraine, especially as the economic situation worsens.

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Compiled from various news services and travel sources. For the latest on world conditions, check the State Department's automated service at 888-407-4747; fax, 202-647-3000; travel.state.gov.